Brief History of the Alaska State Flag

For many, the Alaska flag is a symbol of the state’s wild and rugged beauty. But did you know that the flag has a rich history dating back over 100 years? Here’s a look at how the Alaska flag came to be.

The original Alaska flag was designed in 1913 by 13-year-old Bennie Benson, who won a statewide contest seeking submissions for a new flag. The winning design featured eight gold stars arranged in the Big Dipper constellation on a field of blue, with the North Star representing the state’s place as “the last frontier.”

While the original design was simple and elegant, it wasn’t very practical. The blue background made the stars difficult to see from a distance, so in 1927, the colors were reversed and the field was changed to white. This version of the flag, which is the one we still use today, has been nicknamed “The Great Bear Flag.”

Since 1959, when Alaska officially became a state, the flag has flown proudly over government buildings and homes throughout the state. It can even be seen on license plates and highway signs! Whether you’re an Alaskan native or just visiting for a vacation, seeing the flag is sure to bring a sense of pride and belonging.

The Alaska flag is more than just a pretty face—it’s steeped in history and meaning. So next time you see it flying high, take a moment to appreciate all that it represents. From its humble beginnings as a 13-year-old’s school project to its current status as a symbol of Alaskan pride, the story of the Alaska flag is truly unique.